McKellen comments on The Da Vinci Code

During an interview on The Today Show, Ian McKellen discussed the film The Da Vinci Code in response to a question posed by host Matt Lauer regarding the potential inclusion of a disclaimer stating that the film is a work of fiction. This suggestion had been made by some religious groups concerned about the film's portrayal of historical and religious themes. McKellen expressed his belief that the Bible itself could benefit from a similar disclaimer, humorously suggesting that it should state, 'This is fiction.' He pointed to elements of the Bible, such as the story of walking on water, as requiring an act of faith, which he contrasted with his view of The Da Vinci Code as a compelling narrative rather than a factual account. McKellen emphasized his confidence in the audience's ability to distinguish between fact and fiction, asserting that viewers are intelligent enough to engage in discussions about the film's themes after watching it. This perspective highlights the ongoing debate about the intersection of faith, fiction, and the interpretation of religious texts in popular culture, particularly in the context of adaptations like The Da Vinci Code, which sparked significant conversation about its implications for religious beliefs and historical accuracy.